Báez Upsets Fritz in United Cup Thriller, Argentina Takes Early Lead
Table of Contents
Argentina’s Sebastián Báez delivered a stunning upset at the United Cup 2026, defeating American star Taylor Fritz in a hard-fought match that lasted two hours and 35 minutes. The victory marks the biggest of Báez’s professional career and gives Argentina a 1-0 lead over the defending champions, the United States.
The match, played on the second day of the competition, saw a dramatic shift in momentum after a closely contested opening set. Báez’s triumph underscores the rising talent within the Argentine ranks and sets the stage for a compelling series.
Fritz Dominates Early, Báez Stages Remarkable Comeback
Fritz initially controlled the pace of the match, securing the first set 4-6 after a tight battle that culminated in a break of Báez’s serve in the tenth game. The set concluded after 39 minutes of play, signaling a potentially dominant performance from the American. However, Báez refused to concede.
The second set began poorly for the Argentine, quickly falling behind 0-2. But he demonstrated resilience, winning four of the next five games, punctuated by two crucial breaks of serve. After reaching a 5-5 tie, Báez secured another break and closed out the set, leveling the match at one set apiece.
Buenos Aires Native Secures Decisive Third Set
Maintaining the momentum, Báez continued his aggressive play into the third set. He broke Fritz’s serve in the fifth game, taking a 4-2 lead and extending it to 5-3. Báez then maintained his level, securing the final game and claiming the set 6-4. This victory represents Báez’s second career win against a Top 10 opponent, following his previous success against Andrey Rublev in Bastad 2022.
Gauff Levels the Series, Mixed Doubles to Decide Outcome
Following Báez’s victory, Coco Gauff quickly leveled the series for the United States, defeating Solana Sierra 6-1, 6-2 in a dominant performance. The United Cup 2026 tie will now be decided in a decisive mixed doubles match.
Watch the summary of Taylor Fritz’s victory against Sebastián Báez in the United Cup 2026:
